Fall 2012 trends: military inspired

Sep 7, 2012
LadyLUX • Fashion

Fall 2012 is a new season that brings an invasion of fresh, exciting trends to the scene, starting with military inspired pieces. Designers including Topshop Unique, Sacai, McQ Alexander McQueen and Victoria Beckham did an about-face and referenced military officer’s coats and silhouettes with an emphasis on strong shoulders, coin-like embellishments and of course, army green. The styling steered towards a sharp, commanding sensibility with sleek and structured shapes, but that didn’t mean rugged options were out of the picture. Camouflage prints offered a toughness that embraced feminine strength. It was a clear takeover this season – military inspiration conquers all.

Victoria Beckham pulls rank with a khaki green military coat. The double-breasted style is adorned with gold buttons detailed with a crest. Demand attention by topping off a minidress with the wool coat and complete with leather knee-high boots. Finish the ensemble with a structured satchel to show that you mean business.

The opulent officer takes charge with Burberry Prorsum’s quilted leather satchel. The couture quilting complements the lux calfskin and suede trim while contrasting the gold hardware and gilded fox ornamentation. Accessorize everyday looks with the handbag to infuse attitude.

To easily bring ensembles to attention, build outfits around Rachel Zoe’s Adrienne lace-up booties. The footwear features lush suede trimmed with smooth leather on a stacked heel and double platform. Pair them with skinny pants, skirts or dresses this season!

This season, replace the feminine blouse with a robust style. BLK DNM gives the button-up blouse an armed forces makeover with front flap pockets, a pointed collar and epaulets on the shoulders. The silk military can easily be combined with fitted skinny jeans for a casual appeal. For a more dominating attitude, pair with a mini skirt and lace-up booties.

Jason Wu’s army green contrast-sleeve tech jersey dress makes for a stylish lineup of soldiers. The dress finds a sporty vibe with its scuba-like style and raglan sleeves but there’s no denying the militant suggestion. Step into a pair of pointed toe pumps to maintain a streamline silhouette and complete with long leather gloves.

For the tough girls, Laurence Dolige’s camouflage soldat cotton shirt is a must-have for the season. The button-down exudes utility with flap breast pockets and cuffs while an inverted back pleat gives a hint of femininity. The style offers versatility as a shirt and as a light jacket. Leave it unbuttoned and layered over a white tank and leather pants for the chicest look or wear it buttoned to the top with an A-line skirt. Combat boots mandatory.

Drill sergeants will appreciate Vince’s five-pocket skinny jeans in olive. The stretch denim pants are fitted through the leg and sit at the hips. The slim silhouette allows flexibility with footwear: From ankle booties to pumps to knee-high styles, the style can harmonize with each. Mingle the military color with khaki or white shirts to stay within theme or stand out with yellow to mix it up.

Structured and fuss free, Loeffler Randall’s rider bag is strict as the general. The satchel boasts a classic boxed shape with a front flap and hardware clasp. Buckled straps on the back conveniently allow the bag to be attached to a bike’s handlebars. Complete Fall looks with the rider bag to insert a dose of the military.